Aligarh

History of Aligarh

Aligarh, located in Uttar Pradesh, lies in the central part of the Doab between the Ganges and Yamuna rivers. The city was historically known as Kol. After the British occupation of Aligarh in September 1803, the present Aligarh district was formed in 1804.

Aligarh Fort

Aligarh Fort is one of the most important historical monuments of the city. The present fort was developed by French engineers under the control of de Boigne and Perron. Its strategic location made it an important military stronghold.

Jama Masjid of Aligarh

The Jama Masjid is located at Balai Qila, the highest point of the city. Sabit Khan played an important role in the reconstruction of the present Jama Masjid in 1724.

British Occupation of Aligarh Fort

Aligarh Fort became an important strategic target during the British campaign of 1803. On 4 September 1803, British forces attacked and eventually captured the fort after strong resistance from its defenders.

Climate of Aligarh

Aligarh has a hot and dry climate. December and January are the cooler months, while May and June are generally the hottest months.

How to Reach Aligarh

By Air

The nearest major airport mentioned in the source is New Delhi, approximately 130 km from Aligarh. From Delhi, travellers can continue to Aligarh by taxi or train.

By Train

Aligarh is located on the Delhi–Kolkata Grand Chord railway line and is well connected with major destinations. Aligarh Junction provides railway connections to cities such as Delhi, Agra, Kanpur, Lucknow, Varanasi, Jaipur, Kolkata and Mumbai.

By Road

Aligarh has good road connections with several cities of Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring regions. Regular bus services connect the city with destinations including Jaipur, Agra, Mathura, Ghaziabad, New Delhi, Lucknow and Varanasi.

Shopping in Aligarh

Aligarh is particularly famous for its lock-making industry, which has a long history dating back to the Mughal period and expanded considerably during British rule.

• Locks of different types and sizes
• Brass articles
• Bronze sculptures
• Aligarh pyjamas

Popular shopping areas include Railway Road Market and Centre Point Market.

Places to Visit in Aligarh

Aligarh Fort

Also known as Aligarh Qila, the fort is surrounded by a wide and deep moat and is one of the major historical attractions of the city.

Dor Fortress

Dor Fortress is another historic fort in Aligarh and is associated with a mosque dating from the 18th century.

Aligarh Muslim University

Aligarh Muslim University is one of the city's most prominent educational institutions and an important part of Aligarh's cultural and educational heritage.

Hotels in Aligarh

• Hotel Royal Residency, Aligarh
• Hotel Ruby, Aligarh